tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35560207245379511742024-03-14T09:16:25.226-07:00The Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest BlogChris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-20872601172146361682017-05-04T04:08:00.001-07:002017-05-04T04:08:43.647-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: MOLDOVA<h2>
MOLDOVA HAVE RETURNED AND I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER.</h2>
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BTW... MOLDOVA IS MY FAVE COUNTRY IN EUROVISION EVER.</h2>
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Right so Wild Soul... I Want Your Love... Falling Stars... I've had to clutch at straws to try and love Moldova over the last 3 years. When Eduard brought those sexy latex police officers I got all excited, but that's all I've had over the last 3 years from the land of Pasha. Let's quickly remind ourselves of the King and Queen of Moldova before we continue...</div>
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<b><i>Queen Aliona (left) and King Pasha (right) waving the flag of Moldova for ESCKAZ (who own the rights to that photo)</i></b></div>
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WOW we haven't even covered what is happening this year with Moldova yet. Because aside from my own love, we have the return of the Sunstroke Project. Firstly I love the name. Secondly I love Moldova. Thirdly I love the EPIC SAX GUY. Oh my days, EPIC SAX GUY IS BACK!</div>
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I'm so god dam excited for Hey Mamma! People in our fandom hate this, I'm not even joking. Like ACTUAL HATRED. I will never understand why. You can call it boring or trashy or stupid or whatever you like, but this is in no way deserved of any hate... is it?</div>
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Hey Mamma was my #1 for ages and then I was like I actually prefer other songs and I shouldn't fall into the trap of putting a country as my #1 just because it's a certain country. So I readjusted my love for the song. And hell, it's a great, fun, and uplifting track. There's not too much going on to get lost with, and while I really need to emphasise I HAVE NOT SEEN THE REHEARSALS, I can't see this not getting pulled off on stage. Like the performance of this will definitely be remembered by voters because of the epic sax guy if for nothing else. Whether that means it wins votes is another thing, but it will definitely be remembered. But I think this definitely will win televote support, especially in the semi final! And that is because ultimately it's so easy to catch the hook on. People love jazzy elements, and Hey Mamma feels a hell of a lot better produced than Runaway did. The SunStroke Project have the worst performance of all the Moldovan finalists since 2005 and whilst you could argue that's under threat from a 26-song-long grand final, I think this is *sailing* through from the semi final.</div>
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b></div>
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My initial reaction: <b>100 </b>(out of 12)</div>
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My current score: <b>9 </b></div>
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My semi-final prediction: <b>9th</b></div>
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(I calculated Moldova to come 5th in the Televote and 17th in the Juries)</div>
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My final prediction: <b>17th</b></div>
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(This will do far, far, far better in the <b>TELEVOTE</b> than the Jury)</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-63843980915802126962017-05-04T03:43:00.003-07:002017-05-04T03:43:16.781-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: DENMARKPoor Old Anja... I met her at the London Eurovision Party and screamed in her face with excitement. But the problem is, I did this several times. On about the 15th time I screamed with delight, her eyes were full of fear. I might love drunk me, but Anja certainly does not...<br />
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Despite that, WHERE I AM is awesome and you'd be a fool to write this one off!<br />
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When I heard Never Alone last year I was outraged that the Danes had chosen to send something cheesier than a couples retreat to Cheddar Gorge. Soldiers of Love looked like a box-ticking exercise rather than a performance, so then to not have sent Never Alone, one of the great catastrophes of the NF season last year, felt like being punched in the face.<br />
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Hence you can imagine my joy in finding out Anja had done it this year, she had won DMGP with a song called Where I Am and it was going to be even better than Never Alone. I have previously admitted I didn't follow a single NF this year apart from MF (of course), so finding out Anja was going was "just desserts".<br />
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(Sorry guys I feel like I'm telling a story rather than giving a song review...)<br />
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THEN I heard Where I Am and I was like "no no no Anja, this is all wrong, WHERE is my catchy hook and feel goood riddums?". Well Where I Am does actually have it. IT also shows off Anja's voice a hell of a lot better, and is easily one of the biggest songs this year in terms of voice and production. The NF performance was strong, we know Anja can deliver, and the song is so easy to get!<br />
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The actual song is pretty alright. It's no Quedate Conmigo or Sound of Silence, but Anja will certainly be delivering a voice which could reach those heights. Every time I've seen this performed new, my instincts start telling me that this is gonna be pulled off at Eurovision big time. I have to remind myself of the fact I'm quite bias - cos I freaking love Anja - and the song lacks a fifth gear to take into the top quality power ballads of recent times. So no, while I don't think this is our next Sound of Silence, I think Denmark have real potential to shine as one of the biggest ballads this year and Anja's voice and charisma are jury point sponges alone. Some people don't see this qualifying, but in all honesty I think you're crazzzzy!<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial reaction: <b>7 </b>(out of 12)<br />
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My current score : <b>10</b><br />
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My semi-final prediction: <b>WINNER</b> - that's right you crazy fools, Denmark will win bloodbath SF2<br />
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My final prediction: <b>4th</b><br />
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WOW 4th is a HUGE CALL! But 4th is where this is going based on my own predictor model and Denmark will definitely, definitely do better with the <b>JURIES</b> on this one!Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-43231028169196226272017-04-30T09:07:00.000-07:002017-04-30T09:07:04.077-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: HUNGARYSo first rehearsals kicked off today and Twitter was just about exploding with the biggest load of drama queens. I have decided not to watch any rehearsals this year, in order to keep giving fair song reviews and to saviour how special it is watching the performances for the first time. I couldn't help but watch a 15-sec snippet of Slavko though, and I just can't wait for his semi-final performance! The song might be a joke and the talent might be somewhat missing, but this only exacerbates my anticipation for what will be <b><i><u>slavtacular</u></i></b>.<br />
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Anyway, ORIGO! I'm keeping this short because I've got a big essay due tomorrow. When I first listened to it, I fell in love, was already going to put it in my top 3 and couldn't fathom those who didn't see it as a favourite. It's original, ethno, not sung in English... this list could go on! BUT then WHY, OH WHY the rapping!?!???!?!?!? I like rap as a genre, I like rap as a bridge... admittedly, I rarely like rap on the Eurovision stage... but this does not suit the song at all, and the rap isn't actually that good I don't think. It's not got the edge that Jala had last year for example, or even the fluency of Euro Neuro. If you're going to rap, do something like Love City Groove for the UK in 1995 (never understood the distaste for this!). Rap at Eurovision is rarely successful, and I can't see that changing for Origo - but then again Hungary have qualified every year since they had a break, including 2 impressive top-10 finishes. That's why I'm probably an idiot for predicting they wont qualify this year, but I think Origo is potentially the hardest to judge...<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial score; <b>6 </b>(out of 12)<br />
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My current score: <b>5</b><br />
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My semi-final prediction: <b>12th</b><br />
(will score higher in the TELEVOTE - one of the hardest to call though; could lap up easy jury points, but then Hungary always do alright with the televote...)<br />
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My prediction for the final if qualifying: <b>21st-26th</b><br />
Hungary have a habit for knocking around the 20th position, and I think whether they break out the top 5 would come down to the draw.Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-56472836189222724832017-04-28T10:11:00.003-07:002017-04-28T10:11:24.466-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: ALBANIAWorld might be my least favourite "song" in this year's contest, but Lindita has a wonderful voice, a great personality, and is entirely carrying the Albanian entry this year in my opinion. If World was being sung by a lesser talented artist I would have no problem ranking World 42 out of 42.<br />
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There's an all too familiar opening structure, which we know is going to get bigger and louder and become an epic power ballad. So on the first foot I'm already a little switched off, because to say it, "I've heard this power ballad in Eurovision before". That's no way to make a criticism though, because the same could perhaps be said of many of my favourites this year. No, the reason I'm turned off by the song is because without even being half way through, I haven't heard the "hook" that will stay with me, I haven't heard the chorus which will continue to play in my head later on, and I've had to endure some rather negligible wailing. If Lindita perhaps saved her wailing for a bit later, I might enjoy it a bit more. And as I've previously said, if it wasn't Lindita herself wailing then this would easily slide down to the bottom of my ranking.<br />
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I will be completely honest and say that I'm not one for learning the lyrics to songs as they are meant to be. I learn the lyrics as I hear them and if I go several years singing something wrong then I'm not that fussed. I usually find it highly comical to hear how wrong I've been over lyrics. Nonetheless, Lindita does lack a diction but because I don't enjoy the song overly much, I will never bother to learn what is being sung, and therefore, I don't really have a clue what the song is about.<br />
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By the time we have the bridge in the song we get a snippet of Lindita's beautiful voice again, and then we are treated to an incredibly long and powerful note <i style="font-weight: bold;">ruined by an overwhelming, yet pointless, use of backing vocals and musicality. </i>The note is the best bit in the entire song, and is drowned out. This note could have gone down as memorable as Sanna Nielsen in Undo, or even countryman-like such as Rona Nishliu with Suus. Instead, people hearing this for the first time will be completely unaware of what Lindita has even achieved!<br />
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The revamp seems to have so many good elements, but there's just tooo much going on in this song meaning all those good elements are lost. I wish Good Luck to the stunning Lindita and I wish Albania all the best, but it's not a favourite of mine this year.<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial score: <b>1</b><br />
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My current score: <b>3</b><br />
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My semi-final prediction: <b>12th</b><br />
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My final prediction if qualifying: <b>22nd-26th </b>(bottom 5)Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-10192743487457335972017-04-27T08:23:00.001-07:002017-04-27T08:23:20.712-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: AUSTRIA<h2>
My #1 for 2017: RUNNING ON AIR</h2>
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Running on Air was one of my favourite songs on first listen, and since then just keeps going up up up to the top of my rank for this year. And then finding out that Nathan Trent is amazing and easily the best contestant this year just makes Running on Air that even bit better!</div>
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Running on Air is not in your face, it's just a sweet, cleverly written song. The melody is cool, the vocal is relaxed, and while not the strongest, compliments the song so well. The song has a simplicity to it, which following an all too familiar structure, potentially means it is forgettable especially performing just 2nd in the running order. Nathan may have an infectiously cute personality, but there are bigger songs with bigger performances to come in bloodbath SF2 and I fear Nathan will be lost amongst the divas.</div>
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I can't quite understand why the fandom don't care much for Running on Air. Genuinely after first listen I thought that Austria would be vying for victory and become one of the pre-contest favourites. To then see it so low on everyone's ranks was quite a shock and I just kept trying to find negatives with the song. I failed. Therefore I say you're all wrong and stupid ;)</div>
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Hahahahaha</div>
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b></div>
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My initial score: <b>10 </b>(out of 12)</div>
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My current score: <b>12</b></div>
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My semi-final prediction: <b>9th </b>(very optimistic!)</div>
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My final prediction: <b>23rd</b> (should they qualify!)</div>
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I think Running on Air will score marginally higher with the JURIES, but its difficult to call for this one!</div>
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Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-68937319803728465962017-04-27T08:12:00.002-07:002017-04-27T08:12:59.416-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: UNITED KINGDOMI think this is our 2nd best entry of the decade, behind Children of the Universe, and despite the hype for Molly in 2014, 17th was our final result. That was a shame really, but in all fairness, was everyone so excited because the BBC were finally doing something different in choosing an unsigned artist? They were tapping into that talent pool and while everyone wanted CotU to do well because of the song and because Molly was freaking awesome, I think everyone wanted to see the Beeb continue to tap into that unheard talent pool...<br />
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Welcome the return of the national final, and welcome Lucie Jones! I will confess that after having heard the six songs that were vying for the chance to represent us, I couldn't help but remember posting something on Twitter a while back asking for Ace Wilder to represent the UK. Ace actually liked that tweet and it got me all excited, which is a lot more to be said than the potential songs we were sending...<br />
However, Lucie's performance at the NF was incredible. In fact it was better than that, it was literally insane. Her vocal is so powerful, strong and the emotional connection and the whole lot was just the shiiiiiiittttt..... Lucie wave my UK flag with all my pride...<br />
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Coming from the West End, Lucie does have the potential to bring a very powerful performance to the final stage at Eurovision this year. One could almost say a jury-sponge performance! While televoters will perhaps not be a thoroughly willing and entertained by Lucie, I think it would be sacrilege to see the UK finish bottom 5 again this year. In all honesty, I just don't want to finish in the bottom 5 so I hope it's not fruitless optimism. The revamp definitely revitalised for the 26-song show, and while I perhaps wish we were sending the amazing 7th Heaven Club Mix, I am so proud of Lucie and wish her all the best at Eurovision this year!<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial score: <b>7 </b>(out of 12)<br />
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My current score: <b>8</b><br />
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My final prediction: <b>19th </b>(will score higher with the JURY)Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-91012268807477350212017-04-27T08:01:00.002-07:002017-04-27T08:01:27.957-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: POLANDKasia Mos is such a lovely girl! She is stunning, has an incredibly powerful and interesting voice, and will bring a really great performance if the music video is anything to go by.<br />
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Flashlight though, borders on painfully dull and forgettable after just one listen. There was a time a while back when I really got into how dark the song was and how amazing this was going to be, and then I remembered that every other song of the same genre and qualities is doing Flashlight better. The biggest problem with this song is that it lacks a hook. I know that Kasia will bring it on the stage, and I have a feeling the staging will look amazing, but that should not quantify such a weak song.<br />
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I guess Poland are the real unknown quantity once again this year. Finishing last with the juries and third in the televote last year was perhaps one of my favourite things to happen in the 2016 season, and while I can totally see why that was the case, it would be foolish to think it could happen again. But seriously, is that going to happen again? 2014 was similar, but while the Polish diaspora will definitely vote this enough into the final, I can't see the juries qualifying Flashlight at all. Since their return to the contest Poland have been unprecedented automatic qualifiers. It would take a brave man to predict they won't qualify, and that brave man definitely isn't me...<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial score: <b>3 </b>(out of 12)<br />
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My current score: <b>3</b><br />
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My semi-final prediction: <b>6th</b><br />
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My final prediction: <b>20th</b><br />
(will score higher in the TELEVOTE)Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-57639026031571944132017-04-27T07:48:00.001-07:002017-04-27T07:48:03.097-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: BELARUSHollleeeerrrrrr we've got Belorussian at Eurovision for the first time everrrrr.... and that's our 62nd language to ever show it's face at the contest. What language do you reckon will be next? Whose keeping their fingers crossed for Kazakh? I'm so excited by the news that Kazakhstan will be broadcasting this year's contest, and here's hopeful for a debut in the near future! Hopefully a Kazakh debut will also shut up some Australian haters too. For clarity, Eurovision is NOT a solely European competition, something dating back to the 70s...<div>
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ANY HOOTS... What about this entry from Belarus huh? It's pretty god damn good if you ask me. It's so sweet and lovely, and it's good that some ethno folk will make an appearance on the Eurovision stage. </div>
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I fear slightly for the live vocals if I'm completely honest though. The vocals are not the strongest and I can already hear them sound weaker on the stage... the shouting of "hey hey hey" is great in the studio, but I can't see it having a great impact on the stage as it will be drowned out by fan noise and the backing track. What Naviband have is tons of enthusiasm, a wonderful chemistry, and a song that while objectively might not be everyone's favourites, is at least different enough to be memorable on semi final night. There's a touch of Alphabeat about Naviband, and they had a fun quirkiness to compliment some catchy songs. Let's hope Naviband can replicate some of that...</div>
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This is a borderline qualifier at best though. SF2 is a bloodbath and predicting qualifiers is like predicting lotto numbers at the number. The difference in qualification will surely be in the performance of this one, because while it offers something traditional yet fresh, the genre might not lend itself to a jam-packed quality semi final with big performers and even bigger songs... especially for a country with a relatively poor qualification record.</div>
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I think the big thing on everyone's lips is where will the Belo douze go to this year? </div>
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My initial thoughts: <b>5 </b>(out of 12)</div>
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My current score: <b>8</b></div>
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My semi-final prediction: <b>11th </b>(agonisingly!)</div>
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(I think this will score higher in the TELEVOTE)</div>
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My final prediction if it does qualify: <b>14th-21st</b></div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-39206887018512024022017-04-22T06:41:00.001-07:002017-04-22T06:41:53.978-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: GERMANYWhen I heard 'Ghost' last year, I truly felt haunted. Haunted by such an awful song. My distaste for the German entrant last year was met with some nasty comments, but I don't think I over-exerted my dislike, nor did I seek to ruin the enjoyment that Ghost gave to others. The trolling I received after ranking it #42 out of 42 was therefore abhorrently unnecessary and it's not hard to see how drama, anger and wrath are fuelling in fandoms across social media platforms. But this is about Levina and Perfect Life, so a pedagogy of trolling shall perhaps be left to another day...<br />
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There are already calls that this is the favourite for dead last, and I can't help but agree. There are calls for a rip off of Titanium, and I can't help but agree. There are calls for this being the most underrated song of the year. And there is part of me that agrees. Ultimately, this song is a 'nothing' song. It's impact is dry, and that is maybe because there is nothing to wholly dislike about the song...while there is nothing to wholly like either. Levina seems lovely, and Perfect Life has an elegant charm to it. The vocal is distinct, but nothing special...it isn't showy, but then could it be? I fear the greatest downfall of Germany this year will be a complete lack of buzz for the entry. While Italy and France are bringing fan favourites; the UK is arguably vying for their best finish since 2011; Spain encompasses that 'Marmite' factor so much this year; and Ukraine are ensuring we still have some hard rock; leaving Germany bringing nothing to the automatic qualifiers and so arguably the most forgettable song in the grand final already this season... and we don't even know the semi-final qualifiers yet! I'd hate to call a last place finish entirely down to the draw for the final, especially without seeing the staging. But is the staging really going to elevate this? It's highly doubted. A first half draw will be a catalyst for immediate failure, while a second half draw could be the difference in a point or two, which might then be the difference between 25th and 26th.<br />
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I have been overwhelmingly negative about Perfect Life. It's a sweet entry, and I don't dislike it. But I don't dislike many songs in this year's contest...and perhaps that is why being so heavily critical is a great mistake. Germany might avoid finishing last for the third year in a row, and if they do, I apologise for being harsh once again!<br />
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Good Luck to Levina! I hope she nails it!<br />
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<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
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My initial song rating: <b>4 </b>(out of 12)<br />
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My current song rating: <b>4 </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
My final prediction: <b>26th </b>(will score higher with the <b>TELEVOTE</b>)Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-61315631570496232502017-04-21T05:35:00.000-07:002017-04-21T05:35:26.492-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: ITALYBy the time the pre-contest was coming to a close last year I couldn't stop raving about Francesca Michielin. Nessun Grado Di Separazione was phenomenal. A true Eurovision masterpiece! And one year on, I'm still butthurt. It pains me to watch the staging of this... while it reflected the beauty of the lyrics and embodied Francesca's quaint personality, it is hard to ignore the slight apprehension in the final vocal, and all around the performance was underwhelming and a bit flat. That is me trying to be objective as possible because I still thought she was fucking awesome and deserved to win by miles.<br />
<br />
Anyway... WHAT ON EARTH DO WE HAVE HERE?<br />
<br />
<b>The Winner of this year's Eurovision Song Contest. This is winning. I repeat, <i><u>WINNING!</u></i></b><br />
<br />
I would never have guessed that Italy would go on to become the undisputed favourite at Eurovision this year. I found Occidentalis Karma breathtakingly catchy upon first listen... The performance at San Remo was entertaining, memorable and the introduction of the gorilla left me bewildered but wanting more. And that perhaps is the most important element for a non-English song, from someone who speaks English and a little German at most. Francesco had me dancing and getting a hold of lyrics I simply didn't understand from the first listen. It's instant likeability and raspy vocal, performed with the cutest smile of the year, get me screaming NAMASTE ALLEZ and I didn't even know what he was singing about...<br />
<br />
And then fast forward five minutes and I had looked up the lyrics...<br />
<br />
<h4>
IT'S FREAKING GENIUS</h4>
<br />
It's obnoxious in a humorous manner, it's symbolic and meaningful in a humorous manner, it's reflecting Anglicization in a humorous manner, and it's important... in a humorous manner. For me, Occidentalis Karma had everything going for it. But as I mentioned above, I didn't see this being the sole favourite... and this is perhaps why there is doubt as to whether Italy will actually... and more important "finally"... pull off victory this year.<br />
<br />
<b><i>But the negatives to the song need to be addressed:</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>There is difficulty in translating the meaning to audiences not understanding Italian.</li>
<li>A simple gorilla gimmick might not work for juries and televoters if other favourites have masterful staging.</li>
<li>The depth of the song could get lost in comparison with other entries evoking something "deeper" than a fun or dark melody</li>
<li>That's it. 3 bullet points.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This year is increasingly reminding me of the 2013 contest. As the season progressed, we constantly had doubt among the fandom whether Denmark really was that great, because in all honesty, if Only Teardrops had been entered in any other year since then I don't think it would have won. But during 2013, it was the standout favourite among the polls where too many other songs were very much liked. The same can easily be said of this year. While Occidentalis Karma is possible not the best Italian entry since their great return, everyone has such different top 10s this year because there are sooo many likeable entries. However, the most common culprit is Italy, and this is reflected in it currently winning polls all over the fandom... and that is why this year reminds of me of 2013, and that is why I find it hard to see Italy not winning. I have zero doubt this will win the televote, but it really depends on whether the juries are digging this or not...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>RATING:</u></b></div>
<div>
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div>
My initial score: <b>11 </b>out of 12</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My current score: <b>12 </b>(ranked #3 in my top 10)</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
My final prediction: <b>1ST (WINNER)</b></div>
<div>
(This will win the <b>TELEVOTE</b> and finish somewhere between 3rd and 8th with the <b>JURY</b>)</div>
<br />
<br />Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-48265489455266694952017-04-21T05:05:00.001-07:002017-04-21T05:05:40.635-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: SWITZERLANDI don't think I can forgive Switzerland for last year just yet. It wasn't necessarily that Last Of Our Kind was anything bad, but it certainly wasn't good, and the painful image of Rykka rocking backward and forward protruded my mind for too long post-contest. Still though, thank you Rykka because you are great and fun and it's a shame the song and performance weren't.<br />
<br />
ANYWAY...<br />
<br />
I WILL FOLLOW YOU... APOLLOOOO<br />
<br />
It's soo <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">infectious</u>! Upon first listen Apollo is nothing special, but then 5 minutes later you are repeating that chorus over in your head and wondering how the hell it got there. And that's the mastery of this number from the Swiss: it has an unspoken memorability.<br />
<br />
This is vocally pretty good, and artistically inviting. The chorus has that hook which is easily rhythmic, and is repeated just enough to make you sing it later on. There is a pure simplicity in this song, and the familiar pattern of building to a key change chorus can be heard. The real perk of this song will be that Timebelle can perform this at ease. There are so many natural staging elements which could be incorporated, and whether Switzerland portray an intimate performance or go full out with big shiny gimmicks, both could work well in its favour.<br />
<br />
I have to confess though, there are transparent obstacles to success. I believe the studio version of this song won't correspond with the staging. Despite what I have said, the performance is not going to give this song a burst of life, and is arguably duller than many in it's category. When I reflect on similar songs last year, I don't remember the staging of those songs, but I do remember the lyrical and melodic hooks. Without any key voting neighbours, it's hard to see Switzerland banking on any immediate points from either the televote or the jury. They are part of the jam-packed second semi, but benefit from being later in the draw. I'm putting my neck on the line with this prediction though...<br />
<br />
<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
My initial score: <b>6 </b>(out of 12)<br />
<br />
My current score: <b>7</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
My semi-final prediction: <b>5th </b>(out of 18)<br />
<br />
My final prediction: <b>20th </b>(will receive more points from <b>TELEVOTE</b>)Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-68987242457363601182017-04-21T04:10:00.000-07:002017-04-21T04:10:06.138-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: FRANCEJ'ai Cherche dominated my top for most of the 2016 pre-season and I prayed this was not a fluke from France. I have never disliked a French entry, but hadn't seen them sniffing my top 10 since the days of Jesse Matador... and then came Amir! Allez Ola Ole! And enter Alma. FRANCE ARE BACK AND HERE TO STAY (...hopefully).<br />
<br />
I was so happy France smashed into the top 10 last year, and finishing 6th is their highest since forever...and long overdue! And I know I'm not the only one digging Requiem either. I think that Alma has the potential to do better.<br />
<br />
I won't start going into how disappointed I was with the revamp since the revamp was necessary in order for Alma to continue competing with the song, but I think pretty much everyone agreed the original was better. However, Requiem is still a rocking song. It is all around mature, enveloping a rich lyrical craftsmanship, while still boasting an upfront anthemic beat which is both easily gripping and something we all love to strut to!<br />
<br />
Starting with almost darker tones, the build-up to the chorus is swift and melodically more uplifting. This introduces early a thematic disposition of beauty during troubled times, and imperatively, viewers do not need to understand French in order to engage with the lyrical story. Quite literally, the definition of a requiem is "a Mass for the repose of the souls of the dead" or "an act or token of remembrance" - yet you would hardly argue that the melody to Requiem reflects the semantics. By the time Alma is singing in English and the chorus hits, our hips are already swaying and the percussion introduces a beat that is very accessible. The song repeats itself in a steadfast manner when building to the second chorus, evoking solid structure, and allowing a bridge at two minutes to introduce a sufficient contrast and keep the listeners engaged.<br />
<br />
Overwhelmingly though, the best bit about this entry is Alma herself. She oozes an elegant confidence, sings with great conviction, and has an infectiously sweet personality. Additionally, isn't she just <i style="font-weight: bold;">stunning? </i>It's hard not to see her delivering something special at the Grand Final in May.<br />
<br />
BUT... I do recall saying something very, very similar about Amir last year. With hindsight I was perhaps too eager to get excited by J'ai Cherche, possibly because it was so easy to grasp, had such a fun melody and I couldn't see how audiences wouldn't love it. And in all fairness, they did love it. The juries ranked France a solid 3rd, and despite performing just before televoting faves Poland and Australia, J'ai Cherche still managed to sneak into 9th to give an overall 6th. And many think this is a just deserveds place... because the staging was, well to put it bluntly, rubbish! There was nothing exciting about the staging, and while other countries were maximising the potential of the terrific light show on offer, Amir brought just his charm and charisma. While I undoubtedly think Alma will also do well on the song and her own personality alone too, Requiem offers the potential to introduce stark lighting contrasts, and build a choreography around the contrasting tones offered in the lyrics. The chorus demands more than a simple hook to enjoy it, and this is unfortunately where I can see Requiem slipping up... because if the staging isn't done better than last year, Requiem has the potential to fall flat on it's face.<br />
<br />
Alma brought Requiem to glorious life at the London Eurovision Party, and there are signs that this is more than just a great studio song. The performance of this song is the difference between top 10 and bottom 5, and I wish Alma and her team all the luck in the world!<br />
<br />
<b><u>RATING:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
My initial score: <b>11 </b>(out of 12)<br />
<br />
My current score: <b>11</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
My final prediction: <b>6th* </b>(Will score higher with <b>JURY</b>)<br />
(*if staging is <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">nailed</u>)<br />
<br />Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-33703308249904228442017-04-14T08:07:00.000-07:002017-04-14T08:07:02.867-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: FINLAND<h3>
Finland will be represented in Kyiv with the song 'Blackbird', sung by Norma John, consisting of pianist Lasse and vocalist Leena. </h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Blackbird, Blackbird, don't sing to me, don't sing below my window...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Uh this song has some beautiful, truly stunning moments. I think lyrically this song has real merit and my favourite moment is the 30 second or so piano solo from Lasse around 2 minutes in. It's such an incredibly uplifting moment, and plays on some rather inviting juxtaposition. However, despite my easy approvals, I'm reserved when it comes to the overall package as there are some niggling flaws which should be addressed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've heard criticism that this feels like an Adele rip-off but I can't agree with that. It's less Adele, and more Anouk. But Blackbird unfortunately lacks the same cutting edge that Birds has, at least in my own opinion. I still wouldn't say this song is a rip-off though, moreover, it lacks where it is should shine, or in this case, <i>chill</i>. Norma John try to juxtapose simplicity and depth, as well as lyrically and melodically, with lights and darkness. The emphasis on the juxtaposition is lost. Neither the simplicity or depth are overplayed and the production isn't anything fresh for the Eurovision stage. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Whilst I think the song has a particular beauty, the overall package just won't be cutting enough for Eurovision this year. But I wish Lasse and Leena all the best, and congratulations on brooding a different kind of ballad to the others this year.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
<u>RATING:</u></h4>
<div>
My initial score: <b>8</b> (out of 12)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My current score: <b>7</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My semi-final prediction: <b>17th</b> (out of 18)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My final prediction: If it does qualify, this will finish <b>21st-26th</b>.</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-56838469343579799942017-04-14T04:26:00.000-07:002017-04-14T04:26:08.294-07:00Eurovision 2017 Song Review: GEORGIA<h2>
Good afternoon readers.</h2>
<br />
Finally starting my blog again for the 2017 season. We are something like 25 days away from the first semi-final, so that's like 2 songs a day right?<br />
<br />
The reason I haven't been posting is because I've been mega busy with university work (back doing a masters, wahey!) AND because this year it has been so hard to organise a top! Like seriously, we've had revamps and videos and language changes and potential disqualifications year after year, but nothing has been quite like this year! As I tweeted just yesterday, I have never found it so difficult to organise a top because while there are less songs I *LOVE*, there are just so many good songs and not enough places in my top 10.<br />
<br />
<h3>
So I'll be kicking off 42 song reviews with Georgia. The song is "Keep The Faith" and will be performed by Tamara Gachechiladze.</h3>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fMjoNAZ1DpU/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fMjoNAZ1DpU?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Keep The Faith starts with gentle but dramatic piano chords, and Tamara's voice seems to ooze over the instrumental, with hard-hitting lyrics;<br />
<h4>
"Who told you... to hide behind the veil?"</h4>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oooft GO Tamara! The chorus comes thick and fast, and though lyrically we've heard it before, there does appear to be something endearing in the vocal. However, there is something not quite happening in the opening minute or so. It feels like the song is missing an element, and despite the early praises, I would actually argue the whole package feels uninspiring during the first 70 seconds.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But then the drums start...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Tamara's vocal get's grittier, stronger, and more empowering. There's a big note about 90 seconds in which I hope she nails in Kyiv because really that could be a game changer in terms of people sitting up and listening. Grabbing the audience's attention at this moment could be the difference in remembering the song when the voting begins! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The song appears to be go from strength-to-strength, and just gets bigger and bigger and more empowering, and the revamp has certainly made a few people change their minds since writing it off so early on in the season. Songs which are released early in the Eurovision season are at danger of losing traction in the build-up to the contest, and while the revamp has definitely helped refresh everyone's memories, there still does not appear to be universal or overwhelming support for Keep The Faith.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you couple that with her national final staging, it's hard to see anything about Keep The Faith which is original and "vote-stealing". Ultimately, the song doesn't go anywhere. Competing with a number of big ballads in the first semi-final, as well as performing 2nd directly after Sweden has unfortunately squandered any real chances of success for Georgia this year. I don't think the juries will pick this up, and while the likes of Armenia and Azerbaijan competing in SF1 will ensure televote points for Georgia, I don't think they'll be enough to see them cross the qualification line.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
<u>RATING</u></h4>
<div>
My initial score: <b>2 </b>(out of 12)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
My current score: <b>4</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
My semi-final prediction: <b>16th</b> (out of 18)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
My final prediction: If it does qualify, this will finish 14th-21st</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-62790520495563987102016-05-25T11:09:00.002-07:002016-05-25T11:12:17.247-07:00Eurovision Champions LeagueSo it's now been 11 days since the final and I'm still showing signs of PED.<br />
<br />
I've decided to make my own <b><i>EUROVISION CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
Basically, I've chosen my top four songs from the last 12 years - this goes back to 2005. From this, I've devised two semi finals of 24 songs each. Only 10 songs will qualify to make a grand final of 20 songs.<br />
<br />
Usual rules apply, you can vote for 10 songs, awarding 12 points through to 1 point. Just click on the links below each semi, or send me a message with your faves. Come find me on Twitter too <a href="https://twitter.com/eurovchris">@eurovchris</a><br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Semi Final One -</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://tummiweb.com/scorewiz/rsvp/153990/6nRaj">http://tummiweb.com/scorewiz/rsvp/153990/6nRaj</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; width: 192px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 7021; mso-width-source: userset; width: 144pt;" width="192"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 144pt;" width="192"><ul>
<li>Birds</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>A Million Voices</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>No Degree of Separation</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Sound of Silence</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Always</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Quedate Conmigo</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Believe</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>So Lucky</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Rhythm Inside</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>My Number One</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Calm After The Storm</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Molitva</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>My Heart Is Yours</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Nor Par</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Everything</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Apricot Stone</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Hold Me</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Madness of Love</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Dancing Lasha Tumbai</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Coming Home</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Nije Ljubav Stvar</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Oro</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Tornero</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Boonika Bata Doba</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Semi-Final Two - </h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://tummiweb.com/scorewiz/rsvp/154003/eANyD">http://tummiweb.com/scorewiz/rsvp/154003/eANyD</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; text-align: center; width: 192px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 7021; mso-width-source: userset; width: 144pt;" width="192"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 144pt;" width="192"><ul>
<li>Unsubstantial Blues</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Children of the Universe</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>New Tomorrow</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Angel</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Water</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Popular</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Golden Boy</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Satellite</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Secret Combination</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Qele Qele</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Lautar</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Only Teardrops</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Fairytale</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Rise Like A Phoenix</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>The War Is Not Over</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Eg A Lif</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Lejla</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Euphoria</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Love Injected</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Allez Ola Ole</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Jai Cherche</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>If Love Was A Crime</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Hard Rock Hallelujah</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><ul>
<li>Randajad</li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
You have a couple of days to vote in each semi-final!</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Europe, start voting now!</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
With Love.</h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-85509766051341119462016-05-14T07:22:00.000-07:002016-05-14T07:55:40.785-07:00The Other Winners?I'm not watching the Eurovision final this year because I'm on best friend birthday duties. She realises how much this means to me, it's okay. I'll be watching the contest about 3am this morning and will try my hardest not to find out the winner before then.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Russia?</h3>
But is the winner not going to be Russia? Sure Russia are one of my faves this year, and I'm not saying it because I want Russia to win. I want France to win. I still think France can win the televote and jury vote. But then, Russia are easily winning the odds. And the odds are always spot on with a few hours to go until the final. So instead, let's discuss the other winners!<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Marcel Bezencon and Barbara Dex</h3>
We have the three Marcel Bezencon awards for Press, Composer and Artistic. And then the famous and much loved Barbara Dex award.<br />
<br />
So here's my reckoning for the winners (do we already know whose won the press award!?):<br />
<br />
<h3>
PRESS - Ukraine</h3>
<h3>
<br />COMPOSER - France (or Italy)</h3>
<h3>
<br />ARTISTIC - France</h3>
<h3>
<br />BARBARA DEX - Croatia</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2>
Who are the other winners this year?</h2>
<div>
Belgium are surely a winner for making the final again; the big five are surely winners for all bringing something credible for the first time in forever; Israel are winners for qualifying twice in a row; Georgia for providing the big shock qualifier; Bulgaria for finally making the final after all those years away; <b>THE CZECH REPUBLIC FOR FINALLY QUALIFYING</b> YIPPEE; Croatia and Ukraine are winners for returning to the contest with highly popular songs; Australia for showing the Europeans how it's done; and well read between the lines everyone...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This might be the cheesiest thing since "thunder and lightning, it's getting exciting", but <b><i>WE ARE ALL WINNERS. </i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<b>We are winners for finding and celebrating Eurovision, because we have #ComeTogether and defied geographical boundaries to share our love.</b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<h2>
<b><br /></b></h2>
<h2>
We are the winners of Eurovision (LT United anyone?). With Love.</h2>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-7631279769198682912016-05-13T06:05:00.000-07:002016-05-13T06:06:17.186-07:00Tick Tock, it's Unfair O'Clock<h2>
Why It's Finally Time To Say Good Bye to the Big Five...</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before the start of the 2016 ESC season, you wouldn't have found a greater advocate for keeping the big 5 than me. I was a massive Eurofan with a massively controversial Eurovision opinion. And while I find it funny to ridicule the ridiculous-ness of the atrocity from Armenia, or enrage at the love thrown towards Jamala, her inability to move and her Suus-esque wailing in the last 30 seconds of 1944, it's not cool or funny to be controversial about the big 5. That's why I stated my reasons and spoke little of it, on this blog and Twitter.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, I have done a 180. No longer shall I dwindle in the shadows. It's time to face the reality:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
The Big Five is the Big Eurovision Problem. </h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From this moment on I shall talk about the UK from a UK perspective. Perhaps someone from France, Germany, Italy and Spain can assist, but our overall success has been overall non-existent. That is if you exclude Italy, whose remarkable return to Eurovision has seen four top 10 placings, and surely a deserved top 10 from the new sweetheart of Eurovision, Francesca Michielin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But it can surely be argued that Italy take it the most seriously of the top 5! They choose artists who have competed at the SanRemo Music Festival, which if you know your Eurovision, was actually the inspiration for the ESC. And since Italy returned, the only year they decided not to go through Sanremo was 2014, when poor Emma scored their lowest position in the history of the contest (ignoring of course the legendary Domenico Modugno's infamous nil pointe of 1966 - and that still is arguably the best nil pointe in the history of the contest, see: <a href="http://eurovisionunofficial.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/favourite-nul-point-entry-26-days-to-go.html">"The Best Nul Pointe"</a>).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So why don't the UK, France, Germany and Spain take it more seriously? Although I will now rephrase that to just the UK, there are similarities across these countries. One obvious reason is because we don't have to! We automatically qualify for the final so there is no need to take it as seriously as Russia or Sweden. But I'm not advocating begging at Adele's footsteps until she agrees, I'm just advocating a stronger national pride for the contest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ultimately, the BBC doesn't need to put on a lavish national final with us choosing between Chris Martin and Jessie J. The reason is because even if we sent someone the producers found busking on the street, the country will inevitably and despite how awkwardly, get behind them and wish them well. We will still throw Eurovision parties and the BBC will still dominate Saturday night TV ratings. Put quite simply, taking part in Eurovision is the easiest decision the BBC has to make - not only is it fifty times cheaper than an episode of Doctor Who, it will easily outstrip main rivals ITV. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
A Semi Loss of Final Ratings</h3>
<div>
One of the biggest fears with Eurovision is that the big five contributors to the EBU will want to stop competing. And whether you want to hear it or not, that would damage the credibility and popularity of the contest - so you do want the UK, FR, DE, IT and ES in the competition. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The problem is, and I can only speak from a UK viewpoint, if we didn't make the final because we failed to qualify, there is a very, very strong possibility that the BBC would lose Saturday night ratings. That is the terrifying tragedy. If people in the UK stop watching Eurovision because we are not in it, the BBC then has to do one of two things.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1) Drop the show. It isn't valuable enough.</div>
<div>
2) Try much, much harder to qualify the following year. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The outcome? They would have to try option 2. If the BBC even dared stop competing, you can bet that ITV would pick up the contest faster than you can say Boom-Bang-A-Bang. And there is no way in hell that the BBC would want ITV to beat them on Saturday night ratings with the Eurovision Song Contest. ITV would be clever enough to throw the kitchen sink at it, send some super group formed by a Simon Cowell talent show series, dominate ratings and try to win Eurovision. And then ITV wouldn't drop it, and the BBC would have lost.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
Eurovision is Money</h3>
<div>
I'll leave here with some final thoughts. Unfortunately the Eurovision Song Contest is first and foremost about making money. If the EBU didn't think it made enough money it wouldn't run the competition. But the best thing about Eurovision is that it can grow with this crazy world of social media, and will become the most tweeted, most mentioned, most discussed thing, all over the world on Saturday evening. That's how it is growing exponentially at the moment, and advancing to make more and more money.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In order to make money, it doesn't have to be taken seriously by countries like the UK, because even if we send terrible and do terrible, people from the UK will still watch it. But the EBU is missing an absolutely golden reward - make the UK take it more seriously, and reap the rewards of potentially a big household name taking to the stage and pulling in viewers. It's a risk, but a hell of a risk to worth trying: with Australia now competing, and China and the US broadcasting, and JT interval-ling, it's a risk that's never been better to take. And if France win, could 2017 finally be the year to end the big 5 automatic qualification?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When the big four was introduced, it was because Germany, a country who'd been in it every year since dot were excluded. And that was wholly unfair at the time. But that was in 1998. We are now in 2016. Times have changed, the contest has evolved twice since the late 90s. Let's start making changes for the better because the contest is only growing and growing. The EBU just need to be brave enough.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2>
With Love.</h2>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-35330287907036180522016-05-11T12:47:00.002-07:002016-05-11T12:48:12.924-07:00A new country?So let's have some midweek Eurovision fun!<br />
<br />
<h2>
WHICH COUNTRY WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO SEE ENTER EUROVISION?</h2>
<div>
In light of the disapproval of the US and China potentially being involved, who would you most like to see enter? And forget geographical boundaries for a second, forget everything and just think about a country's music scene.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
I'd love me some K-POP, so how about South Korea?</h3>
<div>
Germany this year does not count...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2>
But I want SOUTH AFRICA!</h2>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think the South African music scene is great, and there are so many good house DJs building up a nice little fanbase. Sure, house music isn't really apparent in Eurovision, but it sets a lovely precedent.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
However, if it came down to just a European country?</h3>
<h2>
LIECHTENSTEIN</h2>
<div>
For the shits and gigs...</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-7380748219470347692016-05-10T01:42:00.002-07:002016-05-10T02:16:39.052-07:00Transparent Voting & The New Scandal<h4>
If you call for 100% televoting, be prepared to defend it
when controversies leak and political arrests happen like they did for some
hundred Azeri back in 2009. Don’t be so immature and naïve to think that
televoting is the definite answer. You are just being blind to its problems
because it is far easier to expose juries. </h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am keeping this short because it’s very important that
people acknowledge that however the voting is done, it is going to be
controversial and unfortunately, corrupt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<h3>
<br />Televoting and Juries Work as a Balance</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jury voting used to do Eurovision so well, and whilst we saw
Greece and Cyprus exchange 12 points every year, there can be no denying that
after the introduction of televoting in 1997, diaspora and shared cultures
started to generate increasingly similar voting patterns. So jury voting was
re-introduced to help balance that out. This is the first thing you have to
remember: (1) TELEVOTING AND JURIES BALANCE EACH OTHER.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Independent Reviews for Adverse Events</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In light of the recent escapades of a member of the Russian
jury, people are complaining that the juries do not take it seriously enough,
that there should be stricter rules enforced on them, or they should be taken
away completely. However, this incident should not be reflective of all juries, this is
simply foolish behaviour in broadcasting one individual’s couple of scores. And I
agree, they shouldn't have publicly shared who they were scoring their points
too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm not going to attempt to come up with a solution to that
problem, but taking away their phones and locking them in a room with exam
conditions isn't the answer. A member of the jury should take it upon
themselves to score privately, and I think what most fans are currently
forgetting is that the majority of jury members do. In this instance someone
hasn't, and (2) THIS IS WHY AN INDEPENDENT REVIEW WILL BE CARRIED OUT.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If jurors do act up, they are punished. For example, the
removal of the jury vote for Georgia in 2014. Each member of the jury gave
exactly the same score for 12 points down to 3 points. This is a statistical anomaly,
the scores were removed and only full televoting was used. It’s as simple as
that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<br />The Televote is neither Transparent nor Robust</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think this is the point which I want to stress the most. I
can recall each controversy with the televote, even if other people can’t.
Videos circulated after the 2013 contest, showing Lithuanian students being
bribed by Azeri officials to vote for Azerbaijan. And Lithuania wasn't the only
country where Azeri voting controversies emerged. All throughout the 00s we saw
a wave of speculation regarding televoters being bribed, and I don’t mean to
make this the Azeri problem, but there's also the case with Malta, and later San Marino.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Between 2010 and 2013, Malta gave Azerbaijan
their 12 points. I am not stipulating further than despite being great songs
which scored well, you can’t say that a country that small with no ties to the “Land
of Fire” isn't a little bit suspicious. I'm not saying there is wrongdoing
there, just that scoring in these ways was suspicious.<br />
<br />
And then in 2014, Malta stopped giving Azerbaijan points, and perhaps out of the blue, San Marino gave Azerbaijan their 12. Again, I'm not calling out wrongdoing, just a raised eyebrow. Importantly however, this identifies
how the televote is not transparent. We do not know the full breakdown of the
televote – everything is hidden and we are to believe that no foul play has
been going on. There has been an incident of transparent televoting though, and
once again, enter Azerbaijan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Azerbaijan have also been held to account (hmm…) over their
illegal action into arrests made for those that voted for Armenia back in 2009.
Firstly, this was illicit behaviour as Azeri officials are not supposed to be
allowed to find out who voted for Armenia, but they got the precise number and
tracked those people down. It may have been seven years ago, but I would want
to ensure the system is safe for voters rather than just falsely believing it
is. It can be argued that the current televote is just not robust enough.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<br />The Most Crucial Part…</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<h2>
JURY VOTING IS TRANSPARENT; THE TELEVOTE IS NOT. </h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Transparency is key my friend. When you
throw around opinions on scrapping the juries because they are scandalous,
remember that the televote is not controversy-free. To emphasise this point you
need to realise that it is far, far, far easier to scrutinise and find problems
with the juries because we know everything about them. We know their exact
scores now, we know who they are, and their scores cannot hide. But the scores
for televoting are hidden! I do condemn the behaviour of one particular Russian
jury member. I do agree that they should perhaps be taking things more
seriously, but there is no way the televote is, could or should be, pure and
reflective.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
A New Voting System?</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The fan community, or more exact, the young Twitter fan
community, seem unable to process change in Eurovision. I say grow up. If we
never had change then like the first contest it would be entirely jury voting
behind closed doors with only the winner announced. Change helps the contest
grow and evolve! People have such distaste at how the new system is a just
making the contest a bigger Melodifestivalen, and hilariously, I have seen so
many calls for countries like the UK to hold a Melodifestivalen-esque national
final themselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Melodifestivalen is the biggest national final for the
Eurovision Song Contest. Why on earth should we not look at making things
similar? If the new system is a disaster and things don’t work out, then please
by all means scrap it and try again. But don’t resist change because it might
not work. Where would that attitude leave us with say, rights for citizens?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The new voting system is great in the aspect of television
though! We will not know the winner until the final few votes are included. How
can you say that is making the voting bad? It makes it more fun! Much more fun!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are negatives to the new voting system, but live in
the fucking moment people. We can deal with problems after they occur.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you call for 100% televoting, be prepared to defend it
when controversies leak and political arrests happen like they did for some
hundred Azeri back in 2009. Don’t be so immature and naïve to think that
televoting is the definite answer. You are just being blind to its problems
because it is far easier to expose juries.</div>
<h2>
<br />With Love.</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p></div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-70092671609590077482016-05-09T15:19:00.003-07:002016-05-09T15:19:49.469-07:00My Annual Mega Scoring Predictor<br />
<h2>
WHO WILL WIN THE 61ST EUROVISION SONG CONTEST?</h2>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>What is this mega scoring predictor?</b></div>
<div>
Woo! Today I am releasing my annual mega scoring predictor. This is taking into account a whole host of polls, juries, predictions, staging, odds and a cheeky bonus given or removed here and there. If you can think of an online poll, it's been included in this score sheet. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All scores are weighted, for example, the odds are given more points than say the ESC Nation Tummiweb poll site. All scores are also averaged using my advanced statistical skills - see <i>My Degree </i>(British humour, very sorry). The highest score a country could receive is 85 (the lowest was of course 0).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This by no means reflects my opinion, but merely the opinion of the wider Eurovision fan community. I love you all.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Previous success or a complete waste of my time?</b></div>
<div>
In 2012, I successfully predicted a win for Sweden; 2013 saw these methods prove successful for predicting Denmark to win; but unfortunately they saw the UK as the winner for 2014 with Austria only 6th (clearly I overrated the UK staging and didn't add enough bonus marks for the "Conchita effect"). I did not use these methods last year because I was cramming for finals. In fact, I was pretty much not around at all last year.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Top 10 & Qualifiers:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2012 - </div>
<div>
I predicted the correct winner with 6/10 correct for the top 10 (having Russia 13th, Turkey 15th, Estonia 20th, and Albania 30th - but who had Suus higher than 30, come on!). </div>
<div>
I got 7/10 right for the first semi-final, and 8/10 correct for semi-final 2.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2013 - As well as predicting Denmark for the win, I had 7/10 correct for the top 10 (missing out Greece 11th, Hungary 18th, and Malta 27th).</div>
<div>
In predicting the semi-finals, I got 8/10 in the first, and 7/10 in the second.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2014 - </div>
<div>
Unfortunately the UK didn't win and I had Austria 6th, but I did successfully predict 7/10 correct for the top 10 (leaving Spain 11th, Netherlands 15th, and Russia 25th).</div>
<div>
For qualifiers, I successfully got 8/10 right for both semi-finals.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What to expect this year?</b></div>
<div>
This year I have used more online polls and predictions than I previously have done, perhaps this will be problematic? Each year my poll has evolved though, and I hope to have the same success. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyway when I finally reviewed the results I was surprised! Semi final 1 only proved to be slightly better than Semi Final 2, and based on previous results, we will see one or two of my predicted qualifiers fall short and 2 to be a surprise. This is especially more interesting considering how tight semi-final 1 is.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think I will predict the winner successfully this year (big claim!) but will do worse than previous years in predicting a top 10.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
<u>The Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest 2016 Predictor Scoreboard</u></h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Qualifiers </b>- </div>
<div>
Semi-Final 1: Armenia, Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Hungary, Iceland, Malta, Netherlands, Russia</div>
<div>
Semi-Final 2: Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Serbia, Ukraine</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Final</b> - </div>
<div>
<b>1st (1) - Russia (81.17)</b></div>
<div>
2nd (2) - Ukraine (71.39)</div>
<div>
3rd (3) - France (68.56)</div>
<div>
4th (4) - Australia (68.34)</div>
<div>
5th (5) - Bulgaria (62.83)</div>
<div>
6th (6) - Italy (60.57)</div>
<div>
7th (7) - Sweden (57.67)</div>
<div>
8th (8) - Armenia (55.94)</div>
<div>
9th (9) - Malta (53.69)</div>
<div>
10th (10) - Iceland (53.31)</div>
<div>
11th (11) - Latvia (51.40)</div>
<div>
12th (12) - Spain (50.01)</div>
<div>
13th (13) - Croatia (49.69)</div>
<div>
14th (14) - Serbia (49.34)</div>
<div>
15th (15) - Czech Republic (47.16)</div>
<div>
16th (16) - Hungary (44.00)</div>
<div>
17th (17) - Austria (41.69)</div>
<div>
18th (18) - Israel (41.37)</div>
<div>
19th (19) - Netherlands (40.31)</div>
<div>
20th (20) - Cyprus (40.17)</div>
<div>
x (21) - Azerbaijan (39.56)</div>
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21st (22) - Belgium (37.40)</div>
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22nd (23) - Norway (35.40)</div>
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23rd (24) - United Kingdom (35.24)</div>
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24th (25) - Germany (34.77)</div>
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x (26) - Estonia (33.63)</div>
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25th (27) - Poland (33.03)</div>
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26th (28) - Lithuania (30.37)</div>
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x (29) - Bosnia & Herzegovina (29.16)</div>
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x (30) - Belarus (27.63)</div>
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x (31) - Macedonia (25.53)</div>
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x (32) - Greece (23.27)</div>
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x (33) - Ireland (23.20)</div>
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x (34) - Georgia (22.11)</div>
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x (35) - Denmark (21.60)</div>
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x (36) - Finland (15.14)</div>
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x (37) - Montenegro (15.14)</div>
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x (38) - San Marino (13.69)</div>
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x (39) - Switzerland (12.29)</div>
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x (40) - Moldova (11.69)</div>
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x (41) - Albania (11.66)</div>
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x (42) - Slovenia (10.37)</div>
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<b>Analysis</b></div>
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So Russia will win, by a bit of a landslide if my points are to be correct!? Rivals France would score 3rd, leaving Ukraine 2nd, which coincidentally mirrors the current top 3 in the odds. And realistically, I think we could all see that happening. </div>
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Surprises? Well I think it's semi-final one where I will make the biggest mistakes. I think it's brave to predict that Greece, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Azerbaijan will all lose their 100% qualification record, even if the semi is tight. In all honesty, I think I'd be surprised if Austria do qualify (I have them 8th), even though I love the song.</div>
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In all honesty, how do you think I have done? Let me know in the comments below, or on Twitter. And no hating, this is a prediction of the final result, valued as fairly as possible.</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-19374063419604484782016-05-09T05:25:00.001-07:002016-05-09T05:32:19.405-07:00Top 5 for 2016 - Day 34IT'S FREAKING TOMORROW PEOPLE, HOLD YOUR HORSES AND GET EXCITED NOW.<br />
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<b><u>#5 Bulgaria - If Love Was A Crime</u></b><br />
Well Bulgaria, you are well and truly back in business. After a two-year absence they are back and looking for only their second qualification since their debut in 2005. Of course we all know their only entry to qualify (see: <a href="http://eurovisionunofficial.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/all-time-top-5.html">All-Time Top 5</a>) and If Love Was A Crime has the ability to repeat that success. We are due a fan flop and I pray it's not this for Bulgaria's sake alone, but Poli Genova deserves to do well with a wonderfully lyrical and inspiring song.<br />
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<b><u>#4 Malta - Walk on Water</u></b></div>
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Yes, I am one of those people who rank this highly. Despite the apparent fan-spiration with the bookies, I haven't met many people who put this in their top 5, or even top 10, and do you know anyone Team Walk on Water (who isn't from Malta?). Ira Losco gave Malta their highest ever finish when she managed 2nd way back in 2002 (since shared after their 2005 result) and could Walk on Water be about to join the Maltese success stories? Quite possibly. I have seen a lot call this the biggest "fanwank" of the year, and while I detest this new catchphrase everyone seems to be throwing around, I can see why people say it is. But I love it and can't wait for it to qualify (even if it will finish bottom 5 aha!)</div>
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<b><u>#3 Russia - You Are The Only One</u></b></div>
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Russia and France are the two runaways and there is no denying why. Most people have Russia and France in their top 5, if not their top 10, and those that don't are by far the most vocal. They seem to have identified themselves Team Russia and Team France and have fallen for a Team Edward/Jacob style attack on the other team for absolutely no reason. While you will hear the two groups slagging each other off, remember that they are the loudest, and by no mean reflect the rest of the fan community. Enjoy Russia's entry for what it is...Sergey is hot, the song is super fun and super catchy, the production is flawless, the choreography is on point and the performance will be insane. Stop hating, start appreciating y'all. And stop talking about the consequences of if they win. Let them win first, then raise points about their ability to host. Because if we keep talking about "what happens if Russia win", we'll do exactly what we seek the contest not to be, and that's political. Don't politicise the song, because it allows non-fans to do the same.</div>
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<b><u>#2 France - J'ai Cherche</u></b></div>
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Maybe it's because its France... no wait... definitely because this is France, I think I want this song to win even though it's my number 2, simply because we haven't seen a French entry this strong since maybe 2002, definitely not since 1991, and they haven't won since 1977. And they used to be such a powerhouse. It seems a completely hypocritical thing to say after what I just said about not politicizing the Russian song because it's from Russia, but actually, it's the opposite of what I'm trying to say as this song being French just happens to be a pleasant surprise, that is all. That is not political. People still doubt whether this could win, and we now know that France will be in the first half and this throws even more shade, but either France or Russia will win (<a href="http://eurovisionunofficial.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/do-polls-lie.html">'Do The Polls Lie?'</a>) and France, in my opinion, will do it. They will be victorious with both the televote and the jurors (<a href="https://twitter.com/eurovchris/status/729256879428358144">proof</a>). If I'm wrong then so be it, but hindsight has always told me to go with my instinct and not to fall prey to emerging entries. And this got my instinct buzzing from first listen. I am yet to play this to someone who doesn't like it as well, which knowing my friends actually means something.</div>
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<b><u>#1 Italy - No Degree of Separation</u></b></div>
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This has crept up on my soooo hard! I am way #TeamFrancesca and even though I'd be delighted with any of my top 5 winning (actually any song apart from Germany), I think Italy doing it would just be fantastic. It's strange this is my favourite as well, as for so long I was so torn between France and Russia. It was actually my best friend who made me realise my love for it because she told me to stop singing it. I didn't even realise I had been. It's been uber-played on my iTunes, it's been my most sing-along, and my most pleasant surprise, and ultimately has made me fall in love with Francesca. Her song 'Sola' I would highly recommend. She is a special talent and would be a deserved victor in my opinion. Thank you Italy, once again!</div>
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<br />Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-63432996855538588252016-05-09T04:59:00.000-07:002016-05-09T05:31:24.777-07:00All-time Top 5Day 33 is now really enticing, my top 5 entries of all time. All have featured in rankings and lists at some point along my epic journey to count down the days till semi-final number one. And with 34 days to go, it seemed like an eternity away. Now it's just a single day and we'll know the first ten acts to join the big 5 and hosts in the final.<br />
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<b><u>#5 United Kingdom 1997 - 'Love Shine A Light' by Katrina & the Waves (1st/227 points)</u></b><br />
This is such a jam. Don't be hating on such a classy written song. I have thousands of childhood memories singing this song at school - our headteacher thought it was fantastic - and then many years later I actually found out that it won Eurovision! You can imagine my delight. But this didn't just win Eurovision, it stormed the scoreboards (for the 90s), is the United Kingdom's highest scoring entry, undoubtedly holds a case for the UK's best ever entry, and is lyrically genius. Katrina herself is a star and I am so proud of this record.<br />
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<b><u>#4 United Kingdom 1996 - "Ooh Aah Just A Little Bit" by Gina G (8th/77 points)</u></b></div>
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But Love Shine A Light isn't my favourite of all time. Oh no no no. That place belongs to Gina G's Ooh Aah Just A Little Bit. I have distant memories of this, hazy yet existent, of singing this, dancing to this and loving this. I was 3 when the UK entered with Gina G to give that some perspective. It's my family who have such wonderful memories of me camping it up to such an iconic camp number. And the crowd were deranged when this didn't win (and let's be honest, while I may be a big fan of 'The Voice', this should have won hands down). And for these reasons alone, it has to be in my all-time top 5.</div>
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<b><u>#3 Sweden 2012 - Euphoria by Loreen (1st/372 points)</u></b></div>
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Does this need any explanation or introduction? Euphoria may be the Ooh Aah of this century, but it goes past an exaggerated glitz by one of the best performances seen on the Eurovision stage. The choreography is mastermind in portraying a simplicity, and powerfully reflecting an intensity. And the song? Well it's pure class. Pure phenomena. Pure Euphoria.</div>
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(I may have ranked Carola higher when ranking the Swedish winners, but I see that as a different category ;)</div>
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<b><u>#2 Bulgaria 2007 - Water by Elitsa & Stoyan (5th/157 points)</u></b></div>
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I mentioned this the other day (<a href="http://eurovisionunofficial.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/top-10-from-00s-4-days-to-go.html">here: Top 10 from the 00s</a>) but it's highly worthy of an all-time top 5 placing. As I mentioned, it's the pinnacle of alternative, has a cunningly structured and yet frivolous delivery of folk-inspired ethno-funk, while brilliantly holding a unambiguous authenticity which enraptures or derides. I will never not praise this entry enough.</div>
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<b><u>#1 Serbia 2007 - Molitva by Marija Serifovic (1st/268 points)</u></b></div>
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Where superlatives fail, just play Molitva. I honestly struggle to see what other's don't get nowadays about the song because I have simply fallen way beyond smitten with it. I could say that I speak Serbian, but I mean, I speak Molitvilian. This song and staging coupled with a unconquerable vocal are everything. Some say there is no absolute, I say there is Molitva. </div>
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<b>Something on Wogan...</b></div>
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When the 2007 contest came around, I was a wide-eyed and easily swayed 14 year old. When me and my parents watched the contest, we watched with Terry Wogan's commentary and it wasn't a lack of appreciation he had for Molitva, it was actually a devaluation and utter bewilderment to it's fans. And I was heavily influenced by such a strong opinion. Especially because Dancing Lasha Tumbai performed after, and I was a fan from the moment the strobes were going, and then Flying The Flag, which is still to this day one of my all-time favourites as well (I will shamelessly admit!). "How could this unattractive chick trying to look like Harry Potter win with a dreary, non-English ballad?" - and that my friends is why Wogan had to go. Whilst I enjoy(ed) 90% of his Eurovision commentary, his inability to see what others could always made him that kind of person to actually attempt disrespect, which especially with hindsight, is just bittersweet. However, in a post which is to come later, fans outside the UK need to understand the UK doesn't care about it's position within the contest, not truly, and the BBC really don't give a damn about winning because they don't need to try to in order to still destroy ITV in ratings. As soon as the BBC give the ESC up, ITV will swoop it up faster than you can say Boom-Bang-A-Bang. Wogan's early retirement from Eurovision came from an inadequate understanding of the modernisation of the contest, disengaging with the mega fan and deliberating the decrease in popularity among viewers. If the contest was to lose a watcher, lose a house party, or lose the international viewer seeking highly-respected commentary, then the BBC was losing the battle and it's cheapest (by far) Saturday night television programming would lose out. Ultimately the show is about making money, and the BBC needed to hold on to that. More to come.</div>
Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-32245917984306677582016-05-09T03:55:00.001-07:002016-05-09T05:30:12.708-07:00Favourite music video from 2016 - Day 32I must confess... I am not very good at watching the music videos because I just don't care for them that much.<br />
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Unfortunately that means it is difficult to choose my favourite as none stand-out. I much prefer to watch performances than videos, and despite Laura Tesoro's funky choreography, my favourite is of course the video I was most anticipating, the song we were all on tenterhooks for, whether you like the guy or not...<br />
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<br />Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-65231222900711708932016-05-06T13:21:00.000-07:002016-05-06T13:23:26.161-07:00Top 10 from the 00s - 4 days to go!Okay where the fuck has the time gone and how the hell are we only 4 days away now!? So exciting!<br />
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So much is happening in Stockholm. In summary: Wiwi don't like the staging for France and Spain, enter angry reactions from fans.<br />
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I say let's wait until the second rehearsals and not go over the top with our responses! Things look very different on a TV screen.<br />
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As part of My 34 Days of Eurovision, day 31 plays homage to the 00s and the transformation of the contest once again. However this decade saw rules come and go over voting, and we truly saw the effects of abolishing the language rule. Some of these tracks are in my all time top 10, and I hope you like my rankings :)<br />
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(please bare in mind how hard this list is to make!)<br />
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<b><u>#10 Norway 2009: "Fairytale" - Alexander Rybak (1st/387 points - duh!)</u></b></div>
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Well I need not say anything about this record breaker. You may doubt me for putting it in my top 10 of the 00s, but the performance of this song is truly magical and 2009 was the year that changed me into this full, heavy Eurovision fan. Would I have done if not for Fairytale? (Yes, definitely, but it's no doubt that Fairytale helped aha!)</div>
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<b><u>#9 Hungary 2007: "Unsubstantial Blues" - Magdi Ruzsa (9th/128 points)</u></b></div>
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You might be thinking "huh?" but I'm aware this'll probably be divisive. I can see why people wouldn't like this, but personally I fucking love this track. I think this is lyrically divine and her vocals (IMO) are enticing and soulful. </div>
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<b><u>#8 Serbia 2008: "Oro" - Jelena Tomasevic (6th/160 points)</u></b></div>
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Oooft that Zelijko knows how to write a ballad! I'm a balkan ballad lover, and so it's quite surprising that only one Zelijko makes this list. Lane Moje and Lejla I can reassure you made the top 20, just not quite the top 10. Oro for me was his best of the decade and I'm glad that he and Jelena got their justice from the 2005 fantastrophe that was the Serbia & Montenegro national selection ha ha ha...</div>
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<b><u>#7 Armenia 2009: "Nor Par (Jan Jan)" - Inga and Anush (10th/92 points)</u></b></div>
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I had this on repeat so much after the 2009 contest and for good reason...it's sick! This is such a fun song and was given such great choreography. The girls were dressed so elaborately and it gets everyone NOR PAR-ing together. What's not to appreciate? For me the appreciation goes next level and is my 7th favourite entry of the 00s.</div>
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<b><u>#6 Moldova 2005: "Boonika Bata Doba" - Zdob si Zdub (6th/148 points)</u></b></div>
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This just misses out on the top 5, which goes to show you how difficult I think this is...BECAUSE I FREAKING LOVE ZDOB SI ZDUB. This song is so much fun, the group know how to really put on a performance and I'm so glad they came back with So Fucky in 2011. This song is one of my highest played ever and I can remember wanting 'Granny' to win when watching this live! Go Moldova!</div>
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<b><u>#5 Estonia 2009: "Randajad" - Urban Symphony (6th/129 points)</u></b></div>
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I always *got* this. As in, I have always appreciated it. Even at the time I thought this deserved to do well. I have always found it a good song, but over the last year, hell even the last month, I'm really, really starting to *get* this. And uh it's so good! It's the most timeless entry of 2009, no doubt.</div>
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<b><u>#4 Ukraine 2007: "Dancing Lasha Tumbai" - Verka Serduchka (2nd/235 points)</u></b></div>
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It almost surprises me that this isn't my favourite Eurovision entry of all time. It's quite arguably the most iconic entry in the last 10 years at least, and well, don't deny, it's an absolute smasher. I'm all over it and you can't stop the fun.</div>
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<b><u>#3 Ukraine 2004: "Wild Dances" - Ruslana (1st/280 points)</u></b></div>
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You all know this winner and it's a hugely iconic performance. You wouldn't have seen the costume, song, choreography, dance routine, "whole package" at an earlier contest. Wild Dances really stands out. It makes my top 3 because it always manages to get me onto my feet and like a few others in the list, is one of my highest played songs ever. </div>
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<b><u>#2 Bulgaria 2007: "Water" - Elitsa & Stoyan (5th/157 points)</u></b></div>
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THIS. IS. INCREDIBLE. I can totally get people not liking it, but surely, SURELY you can see why others do? This breaks mould, stretches the spectrum, and delivers the pinnacle of alternative. For me that means its a true master piece. The staging and performance is electric. I find little to fault with Water, a criminal 5th. However it did deserve to get beat. Because you all know what made my #1...</div>
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<b><u>#1 Serbia 2007: "Molitva" - Marija Serifovic (1st/268 points)</u></b></div>
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Ah lordy, this is absolute perfection. Perfection people!</div>
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Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3556020724537951174.post-85710271732127948732016-05-05T12:29:00.002-07:002016-05-05T12:29:52.131-07:005 days to go - First Rehearsals & Ranking Luxembourg's 5 WinnersOh my good god we are 5 days to go till Eurovision 2016 Semi Final Number 1 and I am very excited.<br />
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The first rehearsals are now over for all those seeking qualification and it was exciting to get a taste of what is to come! For the last few years I've been bogged down with essays and revision and its finally so exciting to throw myself head first into the rehearsals and enjoy Eurovision prep week for all it's worth.<br />
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<b>Winners and losers of rehearsals</b><br />
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Well getting a great big fat A* from me is Jamala and Ukraine with '1944'. Anyone who has followed me knows I absolutely hate the song, BUT she has so brought it to Eurovision. Everything is there and I'm sure once we are a couple of hours away from the final I might have to accept the fact that she could win, even if I don't personally like the vocals.<br />
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It appears that Azerbaijan could be an almighty flop, and well Donny Montell's efforts for Lithuania appear to be slightly embarrassing so far...but come on people, nothing happened for Eneda and Albania! I have never disliked the song, I don't think there is overly anything wrong with it. But please! At least try to make the most forgettable song of the contest interesting! Literally nothing happened, and at this moment, I'd be surprised if she scores any points...<br />
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<b>Ranking Luxembourg's 5 Winners</b><br />
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As you can see, my plan with 5 days to go is to rank Luxemourg's 5 winners. Over my last few posts I've focussed primarily on the last few years of the contest as they naturally just stick in your mind more. That's why I planned to be counting down Luxembourg's 5 winners, because we haven't seen them compete since 1993! It is truly phenomenal that a country that small has the 3rd highest amount of wins (along with France and the UK, behind Sweden with 6, and Ireland with 7), and so without any further ado...</div>
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<b>#5 1983 Corinne Hermes 'Si La Vie Est Cadeau'</b></div>
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She might have an amazing vocal, but I just don't appreciate this song at all. Soz...</div>
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#4 1961 Jean-Claude Pascal 'Nous Les Amoureux'</div>
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Not the worst of the early winners, but certainly forgettable, even if Jean-Claude Pascal isn't...</div>
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<b>#3 1972 Vicky Leandros 'Apres Toi'</b></div>
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I adore this record. I get lost in the juxtaposition of an uplifting beat, lyrically rich in tragedy.</div>
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<b>#2 1965 France Gall 'Poupee De Cire Poupee De Son'</b></div>
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It's a real tough tussle for 1st and 2nd with me, but my number one edges it for the vocals. Nothing should detract away from how fantastic this winner was from 1965. Poupee De Cire Poupee De Son may now be a touchy subject for France herself, but it was the first non-ballad to win and ultimately change the shape of the contest.</div>
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<b>#1 1973 Anne-Marie David 'Tu Te Reconnaitras'</b></div>
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One of the best winners ever? It's certainly up there for me. I never use to appreciate this, but after one proper listen I implore you to not have this stuck in your head.</div>
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This win also gave Luxembourg the first 'double' if you don't count Spain in 68 and 69 and for obvious reasons, noone ever does...</div>
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<b><br /></b>Chris Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16824513888758876878noreply@blogger.com0